Creating compelling and effective content writing samples is crucial for breaking into content writing as a career. Whether you’re a beginner seeking your first job or a seasoned professional looking to switch specialties, content writing samples provide a tangible way for potential employers to evaluate your writing abilities and fit for the role. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to produce professional-quality content writing samples that showcase your skills and land more writing opportunities.
To start, consider the type of content writing you want to pursue and the kinds of samples employers in that field typically request. Common sample types include blog posts, articles, case studies, website copy, social media posts, product descriptions, reports, emails, and more. Your samples should mirror the work you’d be doing on the job as closely as possible in terms of style, formatting, voice, and topic. When in doubt, check job ads and directly ask hiring managers what samples would be most useful.
Next, it’s important to choose sample topics that highlight your expertise and interest in the field. Pick 2-3 subjects you’re knowledgeable about already or are willing to deeply research. Don’t just regurgitate basic facts – your goal is to demonstrate an engaging, informative writing style on topics that matter to your target industry or clientele. Make sure to select evergreen topics with long-lasting relevance rather than trending news stories that may date quickly.
With engaging topics locked in, conduct ample research before starting to write. You need to enter the drafting process as an expert on your chosen subjects. Consult numerous credible sources, such as academic journals, government reports, trade publications, and case studies from leading brands. Take detailed notes and highlight key facts, quotes, statistics, case examples, and perspectives to weave into your own original analysis and perspective. Aim for research that brings fresh insights beyond a surface Google search.
When drafting your samples, stick to a similar format, structure, and word count as real content in your desired field. For blog posts, most are 500-1,000 words. Case studies may span 1,000-3,000 words. Product descriptions are usually under 150 words. Use commonly seen section headers for organization. Follow conventions like AP style if relevant. Your goal is to replicate a professional finished work sample for assessment, not a rough draft.
Pay close attention to writing clearly and error-free without spelling, grammatical, or factual errors. Proofread your work rigorously and have others review it too before finalizing. Nothing damages credibility like sloppy writing filled with slip-ups. It also reflects poorly on your attention to detail and editing abilities. Use spelling and grammar checks in your word processing program and carefully read through line-by-line yourself.
To make content engaging and easy to consume, incorporate design elements thoughtfully. Feature relevant images, charts, graphs or other visual aids drawn from your research sources. Break up blocks of text with plenty of sub-headings. Use a consistent, readable font size and formatting aligned with real-world samples in your field. Add internal links within long-form pieces and relevant external links for additional context when cited. Present your writing samples in a clean, professionally designed format.
Customize your samples to highlight skills like specific expertise on trending topics in your industry, experience writing for different audiences like B2B versus B2C, proven hands-on experience conducting interviews, expertise analyzing metrics and data, demonstrated experience optimizing content for search engines, and more hard and soft skills relevant to the role. Quantify your impact and results wherever possible through metrics. Consider adding a brief introductory cover letter as well.
As the final touch, proofread your samples one last time with a critical eye before submitting. Double check formatting, links, and image placement remain intact. Have others review just to identify anything you may have overlooked. You only get one chance to make a strong first impression, so submit only top-notch work samples that accurately reflect your talents and experience. Consider tailoring samples slightly to different roles and companies based on their unique needs and audiences.
With thoroughly researched, engagingly written, meticulously edited content samples spotlighting your relevant strengths, you’ll be well-positioned to land more content writing interviews and job offers. Employers want to see tangible proof of what you can produce before hiring – so put your best work forward upfront with customized, compelling samples showcasing your qualifications and passion for the work. With samples this comprehensive, you’ll no doubt impress even the pickiest of clients and hiring managers.
Take time developing truly outstanding content writing samples that set you apart from other candidates. This includes picking engaging topics within your expertise, conducting exhaustive research, formatting your content professionally, incorporating design elements thoughtfully, making sure writing is completely polished, and tailoring your samples strategically to different opportunities. Following these best practices will result in samples that convincingly sell hiring managers on your credentials and writing talent for content roles that are the perfect fit. With samples this accomplished, you’ll be well on your way to building your dream content career.
Andrew Stroud